FIGHT BEAT ENTERTAINMENT PROUDLY PRESENTS “THE ROAD TO GLORY” IBA WORLD CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – FULL BOUT SHEET

(MAIN EVENT): 12 Rds, Vacant IBA World Cruiserweight Championship
Bobby Gunn (15-2, 12KO Lignum, VA) – 181 lb.
Vs. “The Bonetown Brawler” Shelby Gross (16-3, 13KO, Ridgeway, SC) – 189 lb.

(CO-FEATURE): 10 Rds, Mid-South Super Featherweight Championship
Jerome “J1” Pillow (13-0, 10KO Columbia TN) – 129 lb.
Vs. Marty Dale “Too Sweet” Robbins (21-31-1, 15KO) – 130 lb.

6 Rounds, Welterweight
James “Spider” Webb (18-1, 15KO Columbia, TN) – 146.5 lb.
vs. Rohan “The Beast” Nanton (4-18, 4KO Brooklyn, NY) – 150 lb.

4 Rounds, Super Featherweight
Melinda “2Cute” Woody (0-1, Cleveland, TN) - 129 lb.
vs. Ashlyn Johnson (0-2, Hamilton, OH) – 126 lb.

4 Rounds, Lightweight
Sammy “Silk” Sparkman (17-14-1, 8KO, Columbia, TN) – 150.5 lb
vs. Martez “Two Sweet” Logan (22-21-2, 5KO, Covington, TN) – 146 lb.

4 Rounds, Light Heavyweight
Joseph Grubbs (1-1, 1KO Cleveland, TN) – 171 lb.
vs. Shane Horn (1-0, Lexington TN) – 184 lb.

4 Rounds, Light Heavyweight
Edgar King (1-3-1, Athens, TN) - 175 lb.
vs. Caleb Watson (0-0-1, Sweetwater, TN) – 180 lb.  ¶ 6:03 AM 1 comments

  SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING PRESENTS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLEHEADER The 20th anniversary celebration of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING continues on Cinco de Mayo weekend with a world championship doubleheader Saturday, May 6, on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) at the DCU Center in Worcester, Mass.

In one of two world title fights promoted by Don King Productions, hard-hitting Alejandro "Terra" Garcia (25-1, 23 KOs) will make his first defense as WBA super welterweight champion when he faces enormously popular local favorite and former WBA welterweight titleholder Jose Antonio "El Gallo" Rivera (37-4-1, 24 KOs).

In the co-feature, O'Neil "Supernova" Bell (26-1-1, 24 KOs) makes the first defense of his undisputed cruiserweight crown when he takes on undefeated Steve "USS" Cunningham (19-0, 10 KOs).

Garcia, of Tijuana, Mexico, was recently reinstated by the WBA as its 154-pound champion when Travis Simms refused to give him a rematch. The only defeat in Garcia's career came when Simms dethroned him on a controversial, fluke fifth-round knockout in December 2003. Garcia captured the WBA interim 154-pound crown with a ninth-round TKO over Rhoshii Wells on May 21, 2005. In his last start, Garcia retained the interim belt with a 12-round decision over Luca Messi on Aug. 13, 2005.

Rivera, of Worcester, by way of Philadelphia, is the WBA No. 3 super welterweight contender. He is stepping up a notch in weight and making his first start since losing his WBA 147-pound crown to Luis Collazo in a thrilling, give-and-take 12-round split decision on April 2, 2005, in Worcester. Rivera, who came up short by the scores 115-113 twice and 113-115, was supposed to challenge the then-WBO 154-pound kingpin Daniel Santos last September on SHOWTIME, but was forced to withdraw with an elbow injury that required surgery.

Bell, of Atlanta, by way Montego Bay, Jamaica, became the cruiserweight division's first undisputed champion since Evander Holyfield in 1988 when he scored an exciting, upset 10th-round knockout over Jean-Marc Mormeck on Jan. 7 2006, on SHOWTIME. Bell, who entered the ring as the IBF champion, was leading the WBC-WBA titleholder on two of the scorecards at the time of the stoppage.

Bell is unbeaten in his last 26 starts (25-0-1, 23 KO’s) dating to April 1998. Cunningham, of Philadelphia, is ranked No. 1 in the IBF, No. 2 in the WBC and WBO and No. 4 in the WBA. A talented boxer-puncher who was an All-Navy Military champion is trained by the legendary Richie Giachetti.

Cunningham won a 10-round decision victory over Guillermo Jones, who owns an upset win over former world champion Wayne Braithwaite, and a 12-round decision over former IBF cruiser champ Kelvin Davis. In his most recent outing, Cunningham scored a fifth-round TKO over Lloyd Bryan on Jan. 7, 2006, in New York.  ¶ 9:39 AM 0 comments

  Dibella Entertainment announces fund in honor of Leavander Johnson To make a non-tax deductible donation to The LEAVANDER FUND, please send a check or money order, made payable to The LEAVANDER FUND, to:

DiBella Entertainment 350 Seventh Avenue, Suite 800 New York, NY 10001 Attn: Meredith Greenberg  ¶ 5:04 PM 0 comments

  8 COUNT PRODUCTIONS NEWSLETTER, MARCH 28, 2006 HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING

LIGHTING STRIKES AT CICERO STADIUM ON APRIL 21ST 8 COUNT SPONSORS CHICAGO GOLDEN GLOVES FIGHT CLUB RETURNS THIS FRIDAY AT THE PARK WEST MIKE GONZALEZ STAYS PERFECT WITH 6TH KNOCKOUT “MACHO” TAKES ON RAUL MARQUEZ ON APRIL 29TH CUEVAS TO FACE DUDDY IN NEW YORK CITY ON JUNE 10TH

8 Count Productions next action packed event, LIGHTNING STRIKES, will take place on Friday, April 21st at Cicero Stadium. Featured fighters on the card include undefeated junior middleweight prospect Jorge Gonzalez, junior welterweight Emanuel Hernandez and Chicagoland fan favorite, featherweight Omar Reyes. Also on the card are two special attraction female bouts featuring featherweight Nora Reyes and heavyweight Christina Christian both of whom are undefeated.

Tickets for this event are on sale now by calling 312-226-5800. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie in Cicero, IL, and is easily accessible from the Eisenhower and Stevenson expressways. Additional information on this event will be announced shortly.

8 Count Productions is proud to announce their sponsorship with the Chicago Golden Gloves taking place over the next two weeks at St. Andrews Gym on the north side of Chicago. For tickets and scheduling information on the Chicago Golden Gloves, please visit their website at http://www.chicagogoldengloves.com/

FIGHT CLUB, Chicago’s hottest white collar boxing show returns to the Park West Theater this Friday night, March 31st. Advance tickets sales can be purchased by calling 312-733-5222. For more information and to view the poster for this event, please visit the JABB Boxing Gym website at http://www.jabbboxing.com/

Lightweight prospect, Mike Gonzalez stayed perfect this past Saturday night, running his record to 6-0 with six knockouts with a fifth round knockout of Joseph Pujoe at the Grand Victoria Casino at Rising Sun, Indiana.

Middleweight “MACHO” Miguel Hernandez will travel to Kinder, Louisiana to battle former junior middleweight champion Raul Marquez in a ten round bout on Saturday, April 29th at the Coushetta Casino and Resort.

For an in depth interview with Miguel by Juan Ayllon of Cyberboxingzone, please visit their website at http://www.cyberboxingzone.com/

On Saturday June 10th, junior middleweight Freddie Cuevas will travel to New York City to face undefeated prospect John Duddy in a ten round bout at Madison Square Garden on the PPV event headlined by Miguel Cotto vs. Paulie Malignaggi.

The Cuevas/Duddy fight will be one of six bouts on the televised PPV.

Stay tuned for much more information on all 8 Count Productions happenings and visit their website at http://www.8countproductions.com/ for the latest updates.

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1997

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions
http://www.8countproductions.com/
bbahrmasel@aol.com  ¶ 4:18 PM 0 comments

  “Big-Time Professional Boxing at Wild Bill’s Concert Hall” A Night of Champions Power, Pride and Honor

Wild Bill's Concert Hall - We have great news for fight fans in the Atlanta metropolitan area. On Tuesday April 18, for the first time ever, a fistic 8 fight professional boxing card comes to Wild Bill's Concert Hall located in Duluth, GA.

Promoter Dana Pitcher of Dana Pitcher Productions, along with legendary matchmaker Peyton Sher have put together an exciting card totaling 50 plus rounds of professional boxing, featuring world class boxers and local young talent in competitive bouts.

The main event is headlined by former IBF World Bantamweight Champion “The Cincinnati Kid” Tim Austin, perhaps the most feared contender in boxing against Colombia’s, Luis “El Monstruito” Bolano 41-5 (31KOs). Austin, 27-1 with 24 knockouts, who is currently ranked #8 in the March WBC ratings, will box against Bolano in a 10-round contest.

In the co-feature, Atlanta's most popular featherweight Jorge "Baby Face" Lacierva 27-6 (18 KOs) steps it up in a 10-round bout against Colombia’s knockout artist Reynaldo “El Doberman” Hurtado 37-8 (28KOs). He is a world-class fighter who has fought on Telemundo, Telefutura, ESPN, and Fox Networks. Lacierva has won several titles including the WBC Latino Title, IBA World Championship, NABO Championship, and he has challenged for the IBF World Championship.

Lacierva is especially looking forward to his fight on April 18; this is because he will be fighting in Atlanta.

“I’m really excited about fighting at Wild Bill's Concert Hall,” said the 27-year-old Santa Anita, Mexico native. “Everyone has been extremely supportive and it’s an honor for me to be fighting here in front of all my friends and family, he said.”

Also featured in a lightweight 10-round special attraction Accra, Ghana’s Alex “Ali” Baba 21-9 (16KOs) steps it up in a 10-round bout against Ocotlan, Mexico's Jose German Cruz 16-2 (14 KOs). Baba now makes his home in Doraville, GA and he is ready to give local fight fans what they have been waiting for. Previously, you have seen him on Fox Sports, ESPN, Comcast Sports, HBO, Showtime, and MSG and now you can see him live.

A full under card features great match ups including welterweight Ed Paredes 6-1 (3Kos) from Puerto Rico against unbeaten pugilist from Mexico City, Mexico Aaron Martinez 3-0 (1KO), in what should be a very competitive 6-round fight. Unbeaten lightweight Tyrese “Head Honcho” Hendrix 5-0 (2KOs) from Gainesville, GA. will fight 25 year-old Joel Ortega 7-3 (3KOs), Nuevo Laredo, TA, Mexico).

Also appearing on the card will be Dallas-based welterweight knockout sensation "Handsome" Hector Beltran 10-1 (9KOs) who will face hard hitting Johnny Edwards 6-0 (3 KO's) of Greensboro, NC, and Dallas' Jesse Orta 6-7 (4 KOs) will square off against Juan Carlos Ramos 3-4 (1KO) of Nuevo Laredo, TA, Mexico. Rounding out the show will be Mexico’s Alan Martinez 1-0 (1KO) against an opponent TBA.

Wild Bill's Concert Hall address is 2075 Market St. Duluth, GA. It is located just off of I -85 on Pleasant Hill Road, right in front of Gwinnett Place Mall.

Ticket prices are: Ringside Seat $75.00, VIP-Floor Seat $55.00, VIP-Table Seat $ 90.00, TKO-Table Seat $35.00 & General Admission $25.00

Tickets go on sale Wednesday March 29th at all: Discolandia Record Shops, El Progreso Stores and Wild Bill’s Concert Hall.

For more information call 678-473-1000 en espaniol llame 404-519-8467

Doors will open at 7:00PM, with the first bout scheduled for 8:00PM. For additional information please go to www.wildbillsatlanta.com

Dana Pitcher Productions is also pleased to announce that “A Night of Champions” (Power, Pride and Honor ) will be televised, following the event, in an unprecedented television broadcast deal with Comcast – Charter Cable and Cox Communications to carry a series of boxing events produced by DPP.


Media Contacts:
Alvin Topham
Dana Pitcher Productions, Inc.
E-mail: top@danapitcher.com  ¶ 4:21 PM 0 comments

  Postal Service Unveils Sugar Ray Robinson 2006 Commemorative Stamp To be dedicated at Washington 2006 Stamp Exhibition

In April, the Postal Service pays tribute to six-time world-champion Boxing legend Sugar Ray Robinson on a stamp.

Resembling a vintage fight poster from the 1940s and '50s, the "Sugar Ray Robinson" stamp design features block lettering and a halftone image of Robinson created from a photographic portrait made during his peak fighting years. He reigned as the world welterweight and middleweight champion.  ¶ 11:26 AM 0 comments

  GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS TO BRING TOP FILIPINO TALENT TO THE UNITED STATES GBP SIGNS BAUTISTA AND GORRES TO MULTI-FIGHT DEALS

LOS ANGELES -- In recent years, some of the most exciting and talented fighters have hailed from the Philippines. In 2006, Golden Boy Promotions will bring some of that talent to the United States, as the Los Angeles-based promotional company is pleased to announce an alliance with international matchmaker Sampson Lewkowicz, SGG Promotions, and ALA Boxing Management that will bring the best of Filipino boxing to American arenas and living rooms.

The first two signees from this alliance are unbeaten and top world ranked bantamweight Rey “Boom Boom” Bautista (19-0, 14 KOs) and super bantamweight Z “The Dream” Gorres (22-1-1, 12 KOs).

“The hottest talent pool in the boxing world right now is in The Philippines,” said Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar De La Hoya, “so to bring exciting young fighters like Bautista and Gorres to the States to train and fight is an important step in the development of our company because we want to continue to bring the best fighters in the world to fight fans, and this is just another avenue of doing so.”

Rey “Boom Boom” Bautista may only be 19 years old, but the native of Candijay has already established himself as one of the most dangerous 118-pounders in boxing. The WBO Asia-Pacific bantamweight champion, Bautista has shown an ability to not only take out his opponents with either hand, but to also box effectively over the 12 round championship distance, something he did impressively when he decisioned Vuyisile Bebe last year.

In his last bout, on December 23, 2005, Bautista fought for the third time in the United States, decisioning tough veteran Gerardo Espinoza over eight rounds.

Another young gun at just 23 years old, Z “The Dream” Gorres is the younger brother of former junior welterweight contender Jun Gorres, but he has done more than enough to carve out his own identity in the fight game.

A native from Cebu Province, Gorres made his debut in 2001 with a win over Rudy Hibaya and he hasn’t looked back since. Holder of an impressive first round stoppage win over fellow Philippine prospect Glenn Donaire in his US debut last March, Gorres returned to the States in his last fight, nearly shutting out Jose Tirado in February.

Both Bautista and Gorres are expected back in the US rings this spring.

For more information on Golden Boy Promotions, please visit our website at www.goldenboypromotions.com

CONTACT Marylyn Aceves Golden Boy Promotions 213-489-5631 Marylyn@goldenboyllc.com  ¶ 7:13 AM 0 comments

  Luan Krasniqi faces David “The Boss” Bostice (Editors Note: Translated from German by Boxing Trend)

Krasniqi vs. Bostice on the 29 April 2006

Hans-Martin-Schleyer-hall, Stuttgart (ZDF - German television - live)

HAMBURG -- The lion is clawing: After the sensational fight for the heavyweight world championship in September, Luan Krasniqi (34) again climbs into the ring.

On the 29 April, he wants to celebrate in the Stuttgarter Hans-Martin-Schleyer Hall against David Bostice (33).

The opponent is not named for nothing “The Boss”: 46 battles - 35 victories - 15 by KO. The fighter, 1.96 meters in height (6’4”), out of Los Angeles has been a professional since 1996 has fought against notables of the – such as Francois Botha, Wladimir Klitschko, and the former cruiserweight world champion Alfred Cole, whom he defeated over 10 rounds.

David Bostice is a very learned boxer and is not to be underestimated. Luan boxes in Stuttgart before many home fans. They will roar and certainly support Luan as the “Lion” becomes more powerful, according to Universum leader Klaus-Peter.

At present Luan Krasniqi is ranked number 3 in the WBO.

The 1.92 meter (nearly 6’3”) Krasniqi has a realistic chance to be able to box again for the world championship, perhaps even against heavyweight world champion Lamon Brewster, who will defend its title against Serguei Lyakhovich on 1 April.

Recently, Krasniqi lost by 9th round knockout against Lamon Brewster, on the 100th anniversary of the birth of Max Schmeling. Luan Krasniqi hopes that this will be the year to redeem himself and bring the title back to Germany.

On the 29 April, the fans may see for themselves that “Luan the Lion” has the bite in addition and will beat back “The Boss.”

Ticket-hotlines:

Universum: 040 / 69,65,59,59 CTS: 0180 / 55,70,000  ¶ 5:29 PM 1 comments

  "SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION"TO FEATURE SUPER WELTERWEIGHT TUSSLE,SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT SHOWDOWN WBA No. 13 Super Welterweight Contender Anthony "The Messenger" Thompsonvs.Super Welterweight Contender Darnell BooneOnce-Beaten Super Lightweight Contender "Vicious" Victor Ortizvs.Undefeated Super Lightweight Contender "Feisty" Freddy BarreraFriday, March 31, 2006, At 11 p.m. ET/PTFrom Maywood Activity Center, Maywood, Calif.

NEW YORK (March 20, 2006) - For Anthony Thompson, his message is clear.

"I want to step up and fight guys in the top 10," the promising super welterweight said. "I hope to fight for a world title soon. I am confident in my ability and I will be ready."

Thompson (20-1, 15 KOs), of Philadelphia, will attempt to deliver his message to Darnell Boone (10-4-1, 4 KOs), of Youngstown, Ohio, Friday, March 31, in the "ShoBox: The New Generation" main event on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT delayed on the west coast). In the co-feature from Maywood Activity Center in Maywood, Calif., southpaw Victor Ortiz (12-1, 8 KOs), of Oxnard, Calif., by way of Liberal, Kansas, will face Freddy Barrera (10-0, 1 KO), of Colton, Calif. The doubleheader will be promoted by Bob Arum's Top Rank, Inc.

The following night on April 1, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will continue its 20th anniversary celebration with a world heavyweight championship bout between World Boxing Organization (WBO) Champion Lamon Brewster and once-beaten challenger Sergei Liakhovich.
A classy, religious, respectful and modest young man outside of the ring, Thompson turns into an aggressive-minded, crowd-pleasing, exciting Philly fighter between the ropes.

"When Thompson turned pro he was considered as promising a prospect as any young fighter in the States," said ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood. "Now, he's clearly ready to move up and realize his potential. In Darnell Boone, you've got a warrior who has knocked down Andre Ward and beaten some notable opponents in James Countryman and Rasheem Brown. He will be a tough test for Thompson."

"I am not a guy who likes to go around beating up people and punching them in the face," Thompson said. "I do not talk trash. I am a very nice, humble person, and I like to do things for people. That is what really brings me joy."

Thompson deserves any happiness that comes his way. A single father, Thompson twice has suffered through unthinkable tragedies. Two of his daughters died before their first birthday.

In 1996, Thompson lost six-month-old Yakira to the rare Zellweger syndrome. Four years later, two-month-old Yasheva lost her battle with the same hereditary disease.

"I had to see a part of me die," Thompson said. "Your kids are a reflection of you." Yet, Thompson has found the strength to carry on through religion.

"I am a Hebrew Israelite," Thompson said. "I can read Hebrew a little. That is why my nickname is 'The Messenger.' I have a grip on life and I realize that there is nothing out there. This world is nothing but illusion, and if you live by the world, that is what you will resemble.

That is not a good thing. You want to have something positive. The whole duty of man is to fear and serve God. That is the bottom line.

"I do not put any burdens on myself. It makes life that much easier. I just hope that I can live up to the expectations everyone has for me. I am going to give my best."

The Hebrew Israelite faith has many of the same beliefs and observes the same holidays of the Jewish faith. For a time, Thompson would not fight on Fridays.

"After I lost my only fight, I talked to my father about my boxing career and my religion," Thompson said. "My father, who is very devout, said 'you are a man now and have a family to support.' So, now I fight on Fridays."

In a spectacular amateur career, the lifelong Philadelphia resident compiled a 151-9 record and won numerous titles, including national championships, Golden Glove titles, and PAL crowns.

"I won five straight national titles in 2000," said Thompson, who started boxing when he was 10 years old. "I do not think anyone in amateur boxing has ever done that."

Despite his success in the nationals, the heralded amateur failed to make the 2000 United States Olympic team. He was considered a virtual lock to make the 2004 squad, but opted instead to turn pro. First, though, Thompson went to school at Temple University in Philadelphia for a semester.

"I had a 3.0 grade point average," Thompson said. "It was hard to leave school, but I had to follow my heart. I do not regret it."

Thompson turned pro at age 20 on March 17, 2002, and won his initial 15 starts. However, in a stunning result, he suffered a third-round TKO to Grady Brewer on Feb. 28, 2004, in Las Vegas. After boxing effectively and winning the first two rounds, Thompson got caught with a vicious left uppercut that sent him down to the canvas. The referee stopped the bout without a count at 2:10.

"I tried to put the Brewer fight behind me quickly," said Thompson, has won five straight since, including a third-round knockout over Adrian Lopez on Dec. 23, 2005. "I lost focus in that fight, but Brewer is a tough guy and definitely underrated. I just got caught with a good shot."

Darnell Boone, at the age of 26 has been fighting as a pro for over 18 months. He has fought from 156 to 169 pounds, and has been very active in the ring with 11 fights in the last 13 months. He fought seven times in 2005, and this will be his fifth fight so far this year.

In his last eight fights, Boone has fought on the road against hometown or "house" fighters, all of whom were favored to win. Boone notched three impressive wins against previously undefeated prospects in that span and had two questionable losses.

In Boone's last outing, one of the disputed losses, he dropped an eight-round unanimous nod (79-73 and 77-75 twice) to Enrique Ornelas (22-2 going in) on March 3, 2006. It was a close fight with Ornelas starting fast and building an early lead. But Boone rallied in the second half of the fight and many at ringside felt he earned the win. The fans booed the decision.

In one of Boone's most noteworthy performances, he scored a devastating knockdown of 2004 Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward (Nov. 19, 2005). Ward went down in the fourth and was still unsteady in the fifth although he managed to recover for the sixth and final round. Ward edged Boone on all three judges scorecards (59-55, 58-56, 57-56) but suffered the first knockdown of his career. Although Ward took the decision, Boone established himself as a tough challenger.

"Everybody knows I won that fight," said Boone.

In the Super Lightweight co-feature, Victor Ortiz, only 19, has won five in a row since suffering his lone loss on a controversial first-round disqualification to Corey Alarcon on June 3, 2005, in Oxnard, Calif. Ortiz dropped Alarcon in the first, but he got up and action resumed. Moments later, after the referee had separated the boxers from a clinch, Ortiz scored another knockdown that put his opponent flat on his back.

This time, Alarcon did not get up. However, the punch was ruled illegal by the referee and Ortiz was disqualified.

"I thought the decision was total bull," Ortiz said. "The referee said, 'Box out.' He did not say break. I think it was a cop out what Alarcon did. People saw that I was not hurt and I did not lose this fight. The ref never called a break. He was tongue-tied. He just tapped me on my arm. Alarcon was already weak and did not want to fight."

A fast, smart, talented youngster who was the National Junior Olympic champion and National PAL champion in 2003, Ortiz has won three consecutive bouts inside of the distance. In his most recent effort, Ortiz stopped Nestor Rosas in the fifth round on Feb. 10, 2006, in San Antonio, Texas.

Barrera is a very busy fighter who makes for fast-paced, exciting bouts. His streak of points victories ended in his last start when he scored a fifth-round KO over southpaw Daniel Gonzalez on Feb. 17, 2006, from Ontario, Calif. "It is the best feeling I have had," said Barrera, referring to his first knockout. The referee halted matters at 2:25 as Barrera was unloading rights and lefts on Gonzalez.

"Gonzalez' body shots slowed me down, but he never hurt me," Barrera said. "I was able to land the right hand whenever I wanted. I think the right hands were what worked for me best."

The telecast represents the 74th in the "ShoBox" series, which debuted on SHOWTIME in July 2001. "ShoBox" features up-and-coming prospects determined to make a mark and eventually fight for a chance at a world title.

A number of fighters who have appeared on the series have gone on to become world champions, including Jeff Lacy, Ricky Hatton, Juan Diaz, Leonard Dorin, Joan Guzman and Scott Harrison.

Nick Charles will call the action from ringside, with Steve Farhood serving as expert analyst. The executive producer of the telecast is Gordon Hall, with Richard Gaughan producing.  ¶ 9:50 AM 0 comments

  HOT PROSPECT MIKE GONZALEZ BATTLES THIS SATURDAY NIGHT AGAINST JOSEPH PUJOE IN LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT Bayamon, Puerto Rico native, Mike Gonzalez seeks to continue his status as one of the hottest lightweight prospects in professional boxing as he faces Joseph Pujoe of Gary, Indiana this Saturday night, March 25th in a six round bout, it was announced today by Dominic Pesoli, President of 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING. This return of World Championship Boxing to the Grand Victoria Casino in Rising Sun, Indiana is co-promoted by Octavius James’ One in a Million Inc. of Merrillville, Indiana.

Tickets are on sale now in advance by calling 312-226-5800 or the Grand Victoria Casino at 1-800-GRAND-11. For directions and information on the Grand Victoria Casino, please visit their website at http://www.grandvictoria.com/.

The 26 year old Gonzalez, now fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a perfect 5-0 with five knockouts in his eleven month old professional stint. Pujoe brings a record of 5-4-1 (1KO) to the ring and this is his second bout at the Grand Victoria Casino in Rising Sun, IN as he beat Anthony Cobb this past December on the first evening of World Championship Boxing presented by 8 Count Productions and One in a Million, Inc.

Said Pesoli about the fast rising Gonzalez, “Mike’s come along very nicely as a pro. He’s not only winning in decisive fashion but our matchmaker Jerry Alfano has done an outstanding job of putting him in against solid guys with an array of skills which really teaches him about different styles and helps prepare him for future bouts. Pujoe is a very slick veteran who will pose a different set of problems for Mike to solve.”

“Mike’s got great power as proven by his KO’s but we want to make sure he doesn’t fall in love with his power and he’s really adapted well to our game plan. He’s been great to work with, always on weight, on time and well prepared. I’m looking forward to big things from him.”

The main event will feature a Women’s IBA World Title Bout between Sumya “The Island Girl” Anani of Overland Park, Kansas and Terri “The Road Warrior” Blair in a ten round matchup.

The full evening’s bout sheet is as follows:

Sumya Anani vs. Terri Blair, ten rounds, junior welters IBA Women's World Title Fight
Michael Walker vs. Manny Castillo, eight rounds, middleweights
Mike Gonzalez vs. Joseph Pujoe, six rounds, lightweights
Aaron Pryor Jr. vs. Tyrone Downey, four rounds, middleweights

For more information on this event, please visit the 8 Count Productions’
website at http://www.8countproductions.com/

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1997

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions
http://www.8countproductions.com/
bbahrmasel@aol.com  ¶ 4:47 PM 0 comments

  LIGHTNING STRIKES SET FOR FRIDAY, APRIL 21st AT CICERO STADIUM DIAZ AND ORTIZ THRILL PACKED HOUSE AT THE ARAGON

ZEPEDA AND FIGUEROA BOMB AWAY IN SIX ROUND COLLISION

RINCON STOPS VENEGAS IN FOURTH

HUGE WINS POSTED BY MIKE NEVITT, RITA FIGUEROA, WILTON HONARIO, JOSE MANUEL ORTEGA AND TAVORIS CLOUD

SUMYA ANANI VS. TERRI BLAIR IN WOMEN’S WORLD TITLE FIGHT THIS SATURDAY NIGHT AT GRAND VICTORIA CASINO IN RISING SUN

IN UNDERCARD FEATURES UNDEFEATED PROSPECTS MICHAEL WALKER, MIKE GONZALEZ AND AARON PRYOR JR.

8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING packed the house this past Friday night as a huge crowd turned out for MADNESS IN MARCH, a St. Patrick’s Day event at the Aragon Ballroom. Chicagoland’s most popular fighter David Diaz took a unanimous decision in his ten round bout battle with Silverio Ortiz that had the crowd on their feet for the duration supporting the two warriors in the electrifying main event.

In the co-main event Francisco Rincon returned to Chicago with a fourth round stoppage of Gilbert Venegas. With most of the fight being fought evenly, Rincon earned the victory after Venegas suffered a bad cut in the third round and the ringside physician declared that he could not continue.

Undercard action saw a first round knockout by newcomer Wilton Hilario over Jeremy Marts, a six round decision by Barbaro Zepeda over Miguel Figueroa in a six round brutal war which had the packed house screaming and cheering for both fighters and a six round decision for IRISH Mike Nevitt over Jesse Sanders.

Others posting victories includes Rita Figueroa, Jose Manuel Ortega and Tavoris Cloud.

Said Dominic Pesoli, President of 8 Count Productions, “The huge crowds are a testament to what were doing and will continue to do, promote quality events and competitive fights. Fans know when they come to our events, they’ll have a great time and see terrific fights. We’re extremely thankful for their continued support.”

The entire off-TV undercard will be available for viewing this week at Maxboxing.com.

Maxboxing also has terrific stories on Dominic Pesoli and David Diaz at these two links, http://www.maxboxing.com/Fischer/Fischer0316a06.asp and
http://www.maxboxing.com/Kim/Kim031506.asp

For an entire wrap up including pictures of the MADNESS IN MARCH event, please visit Cyberboxingzone.com Cyberboxingzone also carried an excellent interview this week with 8 Count Productions’ matchmaker Jerry Alfano at this link http://www.cyberboxingzone.com/news/archives/00001747.htm

This Saturday night, March 25th at the Grand Victoria Casino in Rising Sun, Indiana, 8 Count Productions along with Octavius James’ One in a Million Inc. present an action packed evening of professional boxing headlined by a ten round women’s world title fight between junior welterweights Sumya Anani and Terri Blair. Also featured on the card are undefeated prospects Michael Walker, Mike Gonzalez and Aaron Pryor Jr, the son of boxing legend Aaron Pryor Sr.

Tickets are on sale in advance by calling 312-226-5800.

The next Chicagoland 8 Count Productions event will be LIGHTNING STRIKES on Friday, April 21st at Cicero Stadium. Details on this event will be announced in the coming days.

For more information on 8 Count Productions events and fighters, please visit their website at http://www.8countproductions.com/. For more information on Chicago’s best boxing gym, the 6,000 square foot JABB Boxing Gym where the pros train, visit http://www.jabbboxing.com/

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions
http://www.8countproductions.com/
bbahrmasel@aol.com  ¶ 5:05 PM 0 comments

  JASON LITZAU TO BE FEATURED ON ESPN CLASSICS ON MARCH 21 July 2005 bout against John Nolasco selected for the “Classic Boxing” program on ESPN Classics

BLOOMFIELD, NJ (March 20, 2006) – On Tuesday, March 21 at 8:00 pm ET, undefeated featherweight Jason Litzau’s July 15, 2005 split-decision victory over John Nolasco will be featured on ESPN Classics “Classic Boxing” series, it was announced today by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. The 10-round bout, which was originally broadcast on ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights” program, was selected by ESPN.com as one of 12 “Unforgettable Bouts” from 2005.

Litzau (17-0, 15 KO’s) is a 22-year-old native of St. Paul, MN. In his last bout on Jan 28, 2006—on the undercard of Arturo Gatti-Thomas Damgaard—Litzau dismantled two-time world title challenger Carlos Contreras to earn a sixth round stoppage (TKO 6). Among those at ringside impressed by Litzau’s performance was legendary champion Pernell Whitaker, who described Litzau as “sharp”.

"I am honored that ESPN would select my fight against Nolasco as an ‘instant’ classic", said Litzau. He joked, "I am only 22 years old and already I am a classic.

“But seriously, there will be a lot more classic fights before my career is over. I just hope that the ESPN2 Friday night fight decision-makers give me another chance to fight on their show before I get too old," Litzau added with a smile. "I can't wait to fight on TV again!"

For more info:

Main Events (973) 893-9100, Donald Tremblay  ¶ 4:30 PM 0 comments

  FLOYD MAYWEATHER vs. ZAB JUDAH SWORN ENEMIES! SAT. APRIL 8 AT THOMAS & MACK CENTER, LAS VEGAS, NV LIVE ON HBO PAY-PER-VIEW! FLYWEIGHT SUPERFIGHT! JORGE ARCE TO DEFEND WORLD TITLE AGAINST TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION ROSENDO ALVAREZ ON 'SWORN ENEMIES!' PPV EXTRAVAGANZA!

LAS VEGAS -- compelling match between two of the strongest competitors in boxing's lower weight divisions, World Boxing Council interim flyweight champion Jorge “Travieso” Arce and Rosendo “El Bufalo” Alvarez , has been added to the card headlined by “Pretty Boy” Floyd Mayweather vs. Zab “Super” Judah at the Thomas & Mack Center on April 8. The bout will be broadcast domestically on HBO Pay-Per-View and is being co-promoted by Top Rank and Don King Productions in association with Caesars Palace and Wynn Las Vegas.

The colorful Arce (43-3-1, 32 KOs ), from Los Mochis , Mexico , has always been a fan favorite among his countrymen due to his wide open, risk-taking style. Recent appearances on big pay-per-view cards have gained him new fans throughout the world.

Arce's 23-fight winning streak and world champion status will face a stiff challenge against Alvarez (32-2-2, 24 KOs ), a two-time world champion making his first world title appearance at the 112-pound limit. The proud Nicaraguan's greatest accomplishment came in a draw against the legendary Ricardo “Finito” Lopez in 1998. Not only did it stand as the only blemish on Lopez's undefeated record of 51-0-1, but Alvarez also knocked Lopez down for what turned out to be the first and only time in his Hall of Fame career.

"We are not friendly rivals, we are just rivals, he thinks his going to knock me out, but I doubt it very much, his time has come and gone, now is my time," said Arce. “I don't dance, I come to fight when I'm inside that ring. Mark my words, on April 8, “El Bufalo” will be an endangered species!"

A recent outburst between Arce and Alvarez has added additional intrigue to this match. In his last appearance on Jan. 28 in Cancun , Mexico , Arce successfully defended his title against Adonis Rivas, who boxes out of Alvarez's Nicaraguan stable of fighters. Alvarez attended the event where his fighter suffered a loss by technical decision. A dispute erupted in the ring after the decision and blows were exchanged between Alvarez and Arce.

“I want revenge and I want to shut his big mouth,” the normally even-tempered Alvarez said of Arce. “He will not be talking so much and will be wearing dentures when I'm through with him. I want to crush his star. I will not sleep until I defeat this clown.”

Alvarez added: “My promoter Don King will be facing his arch enemy in Arce's promoter Bob Arum, so I want to win for him as well. I can't let Don down.”

Don King would like nothing more than to see his fighter follow through on his pledge.

“Victories are always sweet,” King said, “but the taste is even sweeter when it comes against my toughest promotional foe Bob Arum.”

King added: “Alvarez and Arce are two of the biggest little giants in the sport of boxing. They will fight for their countries, honor and pride. This is the biggest fight for Alvarez since he faced Ricardo Lopez. His legacy is on the line in this one.”

Both Arce and Alvarez became 108-pound world champions in 2001—Arce for the WBC and Alvarez for the World Boxing Association. Both fighters expressed interest in facing each other, but the world title unification match never materialized.

While Arce won his first world title as a 108-pounder in 1998, Alvarez won his first world title at the minimum weight of 105 pounds in 1995. Alvarez moved up to the 108-pound limit in 2000 and won the world title there in 2001. Both fighters moved to flyweight last year.

Arce has not lost a match since 1999. Two of his three losses came in world title fights against world champions Michael Carbajal and Victor Burgos (his other loss came in his fifth fight).

Alvarez has not lost a match since 2000 and has only lost twice in his career, both against world champions. His first loss came in a re-match with Lopez, and he was disqualified against Beibis Mendoza. A win for Alvarez against Arce would make him a world champion in three different weight divisions.

The Mayweather vs. Judah pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on April 8, has a suggested retail price of $44.95, will be distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 56 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HDTV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For your daily Mayweather vs. Judah fight week updates, log onto http://www.hboppv.com/.

# # #

For Additional Information (Media):

Lee Samuels/Dena duBoef, Top Rank (702) 732-2717
Kelly Swanson, Swanson Communications (Mayweather interviews) (202) 783-5500
Alan Hopper, Don King Productions (Judah, Alvarez) (954) 418-5839
Fred Sternburg, Sternburg Communications (303) 740-7746
Ken Langdon, Caesars Palace (702) 731-7506
Debbie Munch, Caesars Palace (702) 731-7367
Denise Randazzo, Wynn Las Vegas (702) 770-2121
Ray Stallone, HBO (212) 512-1987  ¶ 2:55 PM 0 comments

  DE LA HOYA vs. MAYORGA World Super Welterweight Championship From MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA Oscar De La Hoya Returns to Ring Facing Ricardo Mayorga‘The Golden Boy’ to take on ‘El Matador’ for WBC 154-Pound Crown on May 6

LOS ANGELES—One of the most popular boxers in history, “The Golden Boy” Oscar De La Hoya, will return to the ring to challenge dangerous World Boxing Council super welterweight champion Ricardo “El Matador” Mayorga in a fight appropriately titled Danger Zone, that will be promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Don King Productions on May 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and on HBO Pay-Per-View.

“My goal is to always face the best,” said De La Hoya. “and Mayorga is a dangerous world champion who has no fear. I’m ready to step back into the ring for this great match-up.”

Tickets for De La Hoya vs. Mayorga, “Danger Zone,” priced at $1250, $950, $750, $350 and $150 go on sale Tuesday, Feb. 28 at Noon.

Tickets will be available at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office and also will be sold at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (Tower Records/WOW!, Smith’s Food and Drug Centers, Robinsons-May stores and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at http://www.mgmgrand.com/ or www.ticketmaster.com.

De La Hoya, the 1992 US Olympic gold medal winner, has been spending much of his time since his last ring appearance - a hard-fought loss at the hands of longtime middleweight king Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins at the MGM Grand on Sept. 18, 2004 - promoting boxers that fight under his highly successful Golden Boy Promotions banner. This will mark the first time De La Hoya’s promotional firm has been the lead promoter of one of his fights, in association with Mayorga’s promoter, Don King Productions.

“This is a big fight for Oscar and an important event for Golden Boy Promotions,” said Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer. “All of us are looking forward to this with great anticipation.”

HBO Pay-Per-View is also happy to see De La Hoya’s ring return, as he has been one of the most popular pay-per-view attractions in the network’s history.

"There will be great interest surrounding Oscar De La Hoya's highly-anticipated return to the ring against the exciting slugger Ricardo Mayorga," said HBO Pay-Per-View's Mark Taffet. "It's the kind of big event that pay-per-view boxing fans look forward to."Don King, who promotes the champion Mayorga feels confident his fighter will be victorious on May 6.

"I promoted the first fighter to ever defeat The Golden Boy and I have a good feeling about Ricardo's chances in this one," King said. "When El Matador has been in peak physical condition nobody has been able to stop him. He knows what he has to do and is already in training for this fight."

Richard Sturm, President of Sports and Entertainment for MGM MIRAGE, said, “We are excited to host Oscar’s return to MGM Grand, both as a promoter and a fighter. We also look forward to working with Don King as everybody knows he has promoted some of the biggest fights in boxing history. Over the years, MGM Grand has hosted the biggest stars in sports and entertainment and Cinco de Mayo weekend promises to continue the tradition.”

East Los Angeles’ De La Hoya (37-4, 29 KOs) has already established himself as one of the greatest boxers in history, having won world championships in an incredible six different weight divisions: 130, 135, 140, 147, 154 and 160. When he attempts to win Mayorga’s WBC 154-pound crown, he will be making his 28th appearance in a world championship match. In terms of box office receipts and pay-per-view sales, the 33-year-old has been the most popular non-heavyweight boxer in history.

To get to this point in his career, “The Golden Boy” has faced a star-studded array of the finest fighters of this era - such as Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosley, Arturo Gatti, Pernell Whitaker, Fernando Vargas, Felix Trinidad, and Julio Cesar Chavez - over the course of his amazing 13-year career.

Mayorga (28-5-1, 23 KOs), a native of Managua, Nicaragua, is also a fan favorite because of a full-tilt boxing style that requires an immense amount of courage and bravery—both from Mayorga and anyone who steps into the ring to oppose him.

“This is a fight I have always wanted,” said Mayorga. “I thought Felix Trinidad would be the defining fight of my life but it didn’t turn out the way I wanted it to. Now I’m getting a chance for redemption. I must win this fight for me, the people of Nicaragua and everyone in the world who loves me because of the way I fight.”

The vociferous trash-talker added, “De La Hoya doesn’t like to get hit and he’s not going to like me after I punch him in the face.”

El Matador has faced one of the toughest schedules in boxing in his last eight appearances, considering he has met five reigning world champions, two former world champions and a ranked opponent, who together sported an incredible record of 244-9-3.

Mayorga knocked out World Boxing Association welterweight champion Andrew “Six Heads” Lewis to win his first world title in 2002 and stunned the world in 2003 by scoring a third-round technical knockout over reigning 2002 Fighter of the Year and undefeated WBC welterweight champion Vernon “The Viper” Forrest—and decisioning him in an immediate rematch.

In his next match, Mayorga attempted to become the undisputed welterweight champion by challenging International Boxing Federation titleholder Cory “The Next Generation” Spinks. Spinks’ slick boxing style frustrated the Nicaraguan brawler to the point he was penalized for hitting after the bell in round five and holding in round 11. Spinks won a disputed majority decision.

Always up for a challenge, Mayorga jumped at a middleweight fight with three-time world champion Felix “Tito” Trinidad, the man who gave De La Hoya his first loss in their historic meeting in 1999. In one of the most entertaining fights of 2004, Mayorga scored a knockdown in round three before the Puerto Rican knockout artist won the battle of the bombs with a ninth-round technical knockout.

In his last appearance, Mayorga knocked down former IBF welterweight champion Michelle Piccirillo three times in the first four rounds and cruised to a unanimous decision win for the vacant WBC super welterweight championship.

The De La Hoya vs. Mayorgapay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on May 6 has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be distributed domestically by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 56 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in high-definition television for those viewers who are HDTV capable. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. De La Hoya vs. Mayorga daily updates can be found during fight week at http://www.hboppv.com/

For further information contact:

Marylyn Aceves Golden Boy Promotions 213-489-5631
Debbie Caplan Golden Boy Promotions 818-831-4151
Kelly Swanson Swanson Public Relations 202-783-5500
Alan Hopper Don King Productions 954-418-5839
Scott Ghertner MGM MIRAGE 702-891-7272
Patrick Byrne HBO Pay-Per-View 212-512-1361



  ¶ 3:03 PM 1 comments

  GOLDEN BOY WON THE PURSE OFFER FOR VAZQUEZ-LARIOS IV North American Promoter “Golden Boy Promotions” of Oscar de la Hoya won today the purse offer for the WBC superbantam title bout between champion Israel Vazquez and challenger Oscar Larios, both of Mexico.

Golden Boy got the rights to promote this fight with a bid of $200,000 USD and as of today he will have ten working days to make the 10% deposit with the WBC Headquarters.

Besides the winning promoter, other two promoters participated: Prestige, a Mexican company headed by Dr. Fausto Daniel Garcia, and North American promoter Sycuan.Avel Gonzalez, of Miami, Florida, and member of the WBC Board of Governors supervised the purse offer.

Approximately half an hour after the purse offer, the WBC Executive Office received the visit of the world superbantam champion Israel Vazquez, being one of the first to know the outcome of the purse offer.  ¶ 9:02 PM 0 comments

  CHRIS BYRD VS. WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO HBO SPORTS announced that on Apr. 22 in Mannheim, Germany, Chris Byrd will defend his heavyweight title against Wladimir Klitschko. The scheduled 12-round fight will be carried on HBO's World Championship Boxing, which will present the fight live on a Saturday afternoon. The Bryd-Klitschko championship fight from Germany will be shown live on HBO on Saturday, Apr. 22 at 5:00 p.m. ET/ 2:00 p.m. PT AND AGAIN at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.  ¶ 4:49 PM 0 comments

  20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING CONTINUES WITH WBO HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE FIGHT WBO Heavyweight Champion "Relentless" Lamon Brewstervs.Once-Beaten Contender Sergei "The White Wolf" LiakhovichSaturday, April 1, at 11 p.m. ET/PTWolstein Center at Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio

NEW YORK - The most exciting - and courageous - heavyweight champion in the world is returning to America's No. 1 Boxing Network on Saturday, April 1.

Lamon Brewster may not be the division's most hyped boxer but he makes for the most interesting, entertaining, crowd-pleasing scraps and he doesn't care where he fights.

"I want to be universally known as the world champion, not a United States or regional champion or somebody who just fights in his backyard," said Brewster, who is nicknamed "Relentless'' but might as well be known as "Fearless." "That means fighting anybody, anywhere."

"Boxing is not a beauty contest. It is not the Olympics where you get points for style and grace. It is all about winning, and all I do is win.''

Brewster (33-2, 29 KOs), of Los Angeles, by way of Indianapolis, Ind., will make the fourth defense of his World Boxing Organization (WBO) title when he faces once-beaten Sergei "The White Wolf'' Liakhovich (22-1, 14 KOs) on Saturday, April 1, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast). The 12-round world title fight will be promoted by Don King Productions and take place at the Wolstein Center at Cleveland State University in Cleveland, Ohio. This will be the first heavyweight world championship fight to take place in the city since 1983.

Brewster, who rallied to score a dramatic fifth-round TKO over Wladimir Klitschko to capture the WBO crown, has been victorious in his last nine starts, including eight by knockout.

To illustrate his willingness to compete anywhere, the 2005 WBO Fighter of the Year traveled to Hamburg, Germany for his last outing to defend against local favorite Luan Krasniqi. The bout drew more than 10,000 fans on Max Schmeling Day, Sept. 28, 2005. In a thrilling, give-and-take battle, Brewster exited with a hard-fought ninth-round TKO. But he had to rally and survive "a long count" to do it.

Brewster was losing through seven rounds. In the eighth, he turned the fight around when he landed a hellacious left hook with 30 seconds to go in the stanza that left Krasniqi stiff-legged and crumpled against the ropes. The match nearly ended there but the referee appeared to provide an extremely long count that allowed Krasniqi to get to his feet before the bell sounded. Television replays estimated the count to be between 13 and 17 seconds.

"I should get credit for two knockouts because I knocked him out twice," said Brewster.
Outboxed during the first six rounds and knowing he needed a knockout to win, a nearly exhausted Brewster ended matters when he floored the determined challenger again with 12 seconds left in the ninth round. This time, the referee quickly waved the fight off without a count.

"It was just my willpower and my determination," said Brewster, who has won 83 percent of his starts by knockout. "Luan was a good fighter. He landed many good shots. But I proved by going to Germany and defeating a game challenger that I am a world champion.

"I always fight from will, not always from skill."

In a sensational performance in his outing before last, Brewster successfully defended his title with a devastating 53-second, first-round knockout over Andrew Golota on May 21, 2005. The fight was in Chicago, but it might as well have been Poland. There were more than 20,000 in attendance, almost all rooting for the Polish-born Golota.

Aside from the ovation they afforded Golota during introductions, Brewster gave them nothing else to cheer about. Ten seconds after the opening bell, Brewster dropped Golota with a sensational left hook. The challenger made it to his feet, but was knocked down again from another crunching left hook. A third left hook finished Golota and ended one of the quickest - and most stunning -- heavyweight title fights in history.

"They cannot see me," said Brewster after registering the 13th opening-round knockout of his career. "When God is with you, they cannot take it away. If we cannot work and make it, we can still take it. Golota was the only thing keeping me from the land of milk and honey. I was an F-16 and he was a B-52 bomber and I shot him down.

"I am not saying I am great, but there was Lennox Lewis and before that Evander Holyfied and before that Mike Tyson. Now there is me. I need to stand up and be a great champion. I am here to stay."

Liakhovich, of Scottsdale, Ariz., by way of Minsk, Byelosrussia, has won six in a row, including a unanimous 10-round decision over Dominick Guinn in his last start on Dec. 3, 2004. A boxer-puncher with excellent overall talent and skills, Liakhovich outpointed the then-highly regarded Guinn by the scores of 97-93 and 96-94 twice.

Now, he gets Brewster.

"This is exactly the kind of big fight that I have always wanted," said Liakhovich, who compiled an excellent record of 145-14 in the amateurs and represented Russia in the 1996 Olympic Games. "The heavyweight division is wide open. All I have ever been looking for is a chance to show my skills and talent.
"I am not worried about ring rust. I am sharp. I stay in shape."

Liakhovich has fully recovered from an injury that forced him to withdraw from a fight with Owen Beck in September 2005 on SHOWTIME.

"I suffered from bruised cartilage but I am fine now and will definitely be 110 percent for Brewster," he said. "This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I will be ready. I am supremely confident."

A patient boxer-puncher with excellent movement and good overall talent and skills, Liakhovich is not easily discouraged, and seems to wake up when he is hit. He likes to shoot combinations from all angles but may be at his best when he can press forward and work the inside. He surprised some onlookers, however, in his match against Guinn by effectively moving off his combinations and exhibiting nimble footwork, particularly for a big man. At 6-feet-4, he possesses a significant height advantage over the defending champion.

"This is going to be a great fight for me. Not for Brewster," Liakhovich said. "Brewster is making a big mistake if he thinks this is going to be an easy fight. If it is an easy fight for anybody, it will be me."

The most recent World Heavyweight Championship bout in the Cleveland area took place on September 23, 1983 in Richfield, OH. World Boxing Association Champion Michael "Dynamite" Dokes was upset by South Africa's Gerrie Coetzee by KO 10 of a scheduled 15-round bout. Prior to that, at the same Richfield Coliseum, Muhammad Ali scored a 15 round TKO over a game Chuck Wepner for the WBA & World Boxing Council heavyweight titles on March 24, 1975. Both fight cards were promoted by Don King.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING's Steve Albert and Al Bernstein will call the action from ringside with Jim Gray serving as roving reporter. The executive producer of the SHOWTIME telecast will be David Dinkins Jr., with Bob Dunphy directing.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING celebrates 20 years of hard-hitting, explosive programming in 2006. In March 1986, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was born when "Marvelous" Marvin Hagler defeated John "The Beast" Mugabi in a spectacular and unforgettable 11th-round knockout in Las Vegas. Since that time, the network has aired some of the most historic and significant events in the sport including both Holyfield-Tyson bouts. Always at the forefront of boxing, SHOWTIME has set itself apart by telecasting "great fights, no rights" on the first Saturday of every month. SHOWTIME is the first network to regularly deliver live boxing in High Definition. In addition, SHOWTIME continues to be a pioneer in sports television with a number of interactive features across multiple platforms making SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecasts the most enjoyable, immersive viewing experience for the boxing audience.  ¶ 5:10 AM 1 comments